Recreation Therapist

Company: Cross Country Healthcare
Location: San Jose
Posted on: January 10, 2026

Job Description:

Job Description Recreational Therapist Two Locations: San Francisco, CA and San Jose, CA Pay Range: $34.37 to $38.85 hourly Status: Full Time | FLSA Non-exempt Description The Recreational Therapist is responsible for providing a comprehensive therapeutic recreation program for PACE Participants. This includes assessment, care planning, and the coordination of therapeutic and recreational activities for individuals and groups. Essential Job Functions Coordinates and implements day center social programming and activities, including communicating current events and PACE organizational issues to participants in a culturally and linguistically appropriate manner. Conducts assessments to determine PACE Participants’ care needs, preferences, and goals. Participates as an active member of the Interdisciplinary Team (IDT) for Participant care planning. Establishes individualized Participant goals specific to social and recreational therapeutic programs. Works closely with Center Manager to oversee all activities in the day room optimizing a safe environment while mitigating risks-factors (e.g., falls, wandering, etc.). Remains alert to pertinent input from other team members, Participants, and caregivers and updates the IDT promptly regarding any changes in Participants’ condition or medical status. Documents progress reports in the Participant’s electronic health record. Develops, implements, and oversees the daily Recreation Program, which includes both group and individual activities, as well as periodic community outings. This includes a leadership role with the recreation aides and volunteers. Ensures that therapy being provided conforms to accepted industry practice standards and organizational/department standards. Demonstrates a thorough understanding of the age-related characteristics, symptoms, and needs of participants served, provides clear and effective communication with the Participants, and works with other therapists and primary care staff to enhance the day center experience of participants. Serves as a resource to staff and coordinates volunteer activities at the Center. Builds relationships and coordinates activity programs from various community resources. Arranges performances, coordinates Holiday celebrations, schedules activity instructors, classes, etc., working within department budget. Builds a sense of community and a warm, social atmosphere in which participants feel welcome and supported. Demonstrates active participation in Quality Improvement activities, staff training, and meetings. Acts within the scope of his/her authority to practice. Understands and demonstrates respect for Participants’ rights and utilizes established mechanisms for managing any ethical issues related to Participant services. Provides care to Participants in-person, via telehealth, and/or via telephone, as indicated. Utilizes Epic appropriately and efficiently and serve as content and workflow expert for resolving issues and proposing solutions in Epic. Performs other job duties as required by Manager/Supervisor. May provide after-hours on-call coverage to support PACE participants when the PACE Center is closed as needed for support. Qualifications Required Bachelor’s degree or higher in Therapeutic Recreation or Recreational Therapy from an accredited university or college. Or, a Bachelor’s degree in Recreation with specialization in Therapeutic Recreation. Current BLS and First Aid required. Knowledge of social activities, including programming tailored to the older adult population. Preferred At least two years of experience in a social or recreational program providing and coordinating services for the frail or older adult population. Relevant experience must be within the last five years. Minimum one year of experience working with a frail and/or older adult population. Certification by the National Council for Therapeutic Recreation Certification or the California Recreation Therapist (RTC) preferred. Strong understanding of the psychosocial dynamics in aging. Language Requirements Must be able to fluently speak, read and write English. Fluency in Chinese (Cantonese) is required. Fluency in other languages is an asset. Status This is an FLSA Non-exempt position. This is not an OSHA high-risk position. This is a full time position. Benefits Competitive benefits, including free medical, dental and vision insurance for employee, spouse and/or children, and company contribution to 401(k).

Keywords: Cross Country Healthcare, Rio Rancho , Recreation Therapist, Healthcare , San Jose, New Mexico